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The SEANC Scoop STATE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION OF NORTH CAROLINA IMPORTANT LINKS Member-Only Discounts SEANC Insurance SEANC in the News Update Contact Info Calendar of Events The Reporter
May 1, 2015
SEANC fights attempt at drastic changes to worker rights ahead of crossover deadline This week was crossover week in the General Assembly, one of the more chaotic times of any legislative session. Any bill that did not involve finances that had not “crossed over” from one body to the other by Thursday would be “dead” for the session. SEANC had just one bill to be concerned with ahead of Thursday’s deadline, but it was a big one. House Bill 495, which was discussed extensively in last week’s Legislative Update, had to pass the House this week in order to survive the session. The bill, pushed by Rep. Jeff Collins (R-Franklin), is an attempt by Gov. McCrory’s administration, particularly the Office of State Human Resources, to change key parts of the statutes that govern state employment and personnel rights. It popped up with little warning last week in the House State Personnel Committee, and were it not for the watchful eyes of the SEANC lobbying team would have likely sailed through the House with little debate. Instead, SEANC was able to work with legislators on both sides of the aisle to amend it to remove several provisions we found troubling for state employees.
Theme Park tickets now available Purchase discounted tickets to the hottest theme and water parks in North Carolina, South Carolina,
Read more about the bill, the budget and other happenings at the legislature in this week's Legislative Update. All members are encouraged to talk to legislators in person or by phone to tell them your story and how what they do in Raleigh affects you. Click here for their contact information and click here for SEANC's legislative priorities.
Tennessee and Virginia at any State Employees' Credit Union branch in the state.
We're also looking for information from workers who have dealt with privatization, primarily in the Department of Transportation. If you have been affected by outsourcing, click here to let us know!
You may be missing out on something!
REMINDER: Sam’s Club vouchers expire May 31, 2015. Vouchers will NOT be accepted past May 31, 2015. Please use your Sam’s Club voucher before May 31, 2015.
Have you recently moved, gotten a new telephone number or have a different email address? SEANC needs to know. Having the most up-to-date contact information on file with us is important so we can reach you by mail or phone when an issue arises. To check your information on file with us and make changes, click on “Update Contact Information” under Quick Links at the bottom left of seanc.org (you must log into the site first). Also, if you have SEANC insurance and would like to update us on new dependents, marital status or anything else, please click here.
More state workers side with SEANC! Retiring soon? Get your Retirement Health Plan questions answered! Are you already over 65 or turning 65 in the next 12 months and nearing retirement? The State Health Plan is now offering information sessions to help you maximize your health plan options. Click here for dates and times. Seating is limited so register early.
Want easy access to SEANC discounts? Then make sure you download the PerksCard app - PerksConnect. Available on the App Store and Google Play, this lets
Congratulations to all 67 new members who chose this week to empower themselves and the public services they provide by joining SEANC! SEANC members in District 3 welcomed their newest member this week, Dr. Sheri Everts, Chancellor of Appalachian State University (pictured). New members also come to us from the state departments of Health and Human Services, Public Safety and Transportation, the administrative office of the Courts, Pitt Community College, Appalachian State University, East Carolina University, N.C. Central University, UNC Hospitals and schools in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County, Weldon and Union County. Contact Lynn Cote for more information on hosting an event at your worksite.
you start saving by showing local deals, right on your phone! Just be sure to use the group code SEANC when you register! Click here for more information.
RECRUIT! RECRUIT! RECRUIT! Do you have co-workers who are not SEANC members? Tell them why they should sign up today! Share with them your copy of the Scoop or the Reporter. Tell them about our legislative victories, including the $1,000 pay raise and 5 bonus days. Tell them that SEANC is a strong advocate for public employees and the vital services they provide - the only association that speaks for all state employees and works to improve North Carolina. For more information, visit our website, www.seanc.org and be sure to check out our Recruiter Resources.
Spring has sprung at Biltmore! Spring flowers are in bloom and what better time to visit the Biltmore Estate! Enjoy the Biltmore Blooms now thru May 25. Use your SEANC membership for discounted tickets to the Biltmore Estate in Asheville. Click here to place your order or contact a Member Benefits Program Specialist at 800-222-2758 to request a voucher for discounted tickets purchased at the gate.
Boston Mutual Insurance Boston Mutual Insurance provides financial protection for SEANC members and their families against the unexpected. Members can choose coverage amounts from $10,000 up to a maximum $500,000. New SEANC members under age 60 (actively working for the State of North Carolina) who enroll within 180 days of joining SEANC have a special opportunity to enroll without health evidence for up to $150,000. For more information visit the SEANC Insurance page or contact a Member Benefits Insurance Specialist at 800-222-2758.
State Employees Association of North Carolina 1621 Midtown Place Raleigh, NC 27609 800-222-2758 | seanc.org
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The SEANC Scoop STATE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION OF NORTH CAROLINA IMPORTANT LINKS Member-Only Discounts SEANC Insurance SEANC in the News Update Contact Info Calendar of Events The Reporter
May 8, 2015
Leaders tout $400 million but downplay it privately
surplus,
This week leaders from both the House and Senate and Gov. McCrory praised the announcement of a $400 million revenue surplus as proof that their tax changes had strengthened the economy. But just as the news broke on Wednesday, Executive Director Mitch Leonard and others from SEANC were meeting with the four full chairpersons of the House Appropriations Committee. The message received by SEANC in that meeting was “don’t get your hopes up” that the surplus will go to much needed raises for state employees and cost-of-living adjustments for retirees. The Senate is already pushing a cut in corporate taxes that would wipe out half of that surplus. Gov. McCrory and some in the Senate want to use it to replenish reserves. A Medicaid shortfall could top more than $200 million again this year as well. Senior groups are asking for the return of medical deductions. Needless to say, there are a lot of outstretched hands wanting a piece of the surplus. Read more about the surplus, the budget and other happenings at the legislature in this week's Legislative Update.
Theme Park tickets now available Purchase discounted tickets to the hottest theme and water parks in North
All members are encouraged to talk to legislators in person or by phone to tell them your story and how what they do in Raleigh affects you. Click here for their contact information and click here for SEANC's legislative priorities. We're also looking for information from workers who have dealt with privatization, primarily in the Department of Transportation. If you have been affected by outsourcing, click here to let us know!
Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia at any State Employees' Credit Union branch in the state.
Retiring soon? SEANC know!
Let
Are you nearing retirement? SEANC needs to know! The state does not alert us when a member retires, so it is very important that you tell us to maintain your membership and ensure that your insurance programs continue. Also, your dues decrease to $5 a month at retirement, so it's important to your wallet as well! Contact the office at 800-222-2758 to let us know!
REMINDER: Sam’s Club vouchers expire May 31, 2015. Vouchers will NOT be accepted past May 31, 2015. Please use your Sam’s Club voucher before May 31, 2015.
Want easy access to SEANC discounts? Then make sure you download the PerksCard app - PerksConnect. Available on the App Store and Google Play, this lets you start saving by showing local deals, right on your phone! Just be sure to use the group code SEANC when you register! Click here for more information.
Also, the State Health Plan is offering information sessions to help you maximize your health plan options when retiring. The first event will be held tonight in New Hanover County at Cape Fear Community College North Campus. Click here for dates and times. Seating is limited so register early.
More state workers side with SEANC! Congratulations to all 76 new members who chose this week to empower themselves and the public services they provide by joining SEANC! SEANC members in District 22 recruited new members at a Probation and Parole event in Spring Lake this week (pictured). New members also come to us from the state departments of Agriculture, Health and Human Services, Justice, Public Safety, Revenue and Transportation, East Carolina University, N.C. Central University, UNC-Pembroke, Western Carolina University, Winston Salem State University, UNC Hospitals, Asheville-Buncombe Technical College, Pitt Community College, and schools in Durham, Granville, Johnston, Mecklenburg and Union counties. Contact Lynn Cote for more information on hosting an event at your worksite.
Stay in the know by updating your info Have you recently moved, gotten a new telephone number or have a different email address? SEANC needs to know. Having
the most up-to-date contact information on file with us is important so we can reach you by mail or phone when an issue arises. To check your information on file with us and make changes, click on “Update Contact Information� under Quick Links at the bottom left of seanc.org (you must log into the site first). Also, if you have SEANC insurance and would like to update us on new dependents, marital status or anything else, please click here.
Beat the heat this summer! Summer is almost here and it's time to take advantage of SEANC's great deals at area water parks. Hit the waves at Jungle Rapids in Wilmington, at Myrtle Waves in Myrtle Beach, or at Wet 'n Wild Emerald Pointe in Greensboro. Be sure to check the parks' websites for hours and dates of operation. Members can purchase discount tickets for these water parks at any State Employees' Credit Union Branch. Click here to find an SECU branch near you. SEANC members can now purchase discounted tickets to Water Country USA in Williamsburg, Va., through the SEANC website or by calling the SEANC office and speaking with a Member Benefits Program Specialist.
RECRUIT! RECRUIT! RECRUIT! Do you have co-workers who are not SEANC members? Tell them why they should sign up today! Share with them your copy of the Scoop or the Reporter. Tell them about our legislative victories, including the $1,000 pay raise and 5 bonus days. Tell them that SEANC is a strong advocate for public employees and the vital services they provide - the only association that speaks for all state employees and works to improve North Carolina. For more information, visit our website, www.seanc.org and be sure to check out our Recruiter Resources.
Long-term Care Insurance Did you know that as a SEANC member you can purchase longterm care insurance for yourself, parents and grandparents? Long-term care includes a wide range of services that help loved ones maintain the normal activities of daily living. Call Southeastern Senior Strategies at 866-582-5260 or 919-3599910 for a free quote today.
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The SEANC Scoop STATE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION OF NORTH CAROLINA IMPORTANT LINKS Member-Only Discounts SEANC Insurance SEANC in the News Update Contact Info Calendar of Events The Reporter
May 15, 2015
Budget dance in full swing as House prepares to release its proposal The budget dance is officially in full swing. The House is expected to make its proposal public on Sunday night, so it can be debated in a House Finance Committee meeting Monday. The House Appropriations Committee will likely spend most of Tuesday considering amendments. Then it is House Speaker Tim Moore’s hope to have it fully approved by Friday, in time for the Memorial Day weekend. We don’t have the details yet, but all indications we have received say that the House’s proposal will include a pay raise for state employees and a cost-of-living adjustment for retirees. How big or small those amounts will be is anyone’s guess at this point. This quick turnaround means SEANC’s lobbyists will be burning the midnight oil at the legislature this week, making sure state employees and retirees are heard. SEANC Director of Government Relations Ardis Watkins pointed out the need for raises and cost-of-living adjustments in this report on WNCN NBC 17 Thursday.
Theme Park tickets now available
Read more about the surplus, the budget and other happenings at the legislature in this week's Legislative Update.
Purchase discounted tickets to the hottest theme and water parks in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia at any State Employees'
We're also looking for information from workers who have dealt with privatization, primarily in the Department of Transportation. If you have been affected by outsourcing, click here to let us know!
Credit Union branch in the state.
SEANC members come to Raleigh to lobby!
REMINDER: Sam’s Club vouchers expire May 31, 2015. Vouchers will NOT be accepted past May 31, 2015. Please use your Sam’s Club voucher before May 31, 2015.
Retiring soon? Get the facts on your health care options The State Health Plan is offering information sessions to help you maximize your health plan options when retiring. Click here for dates and times. Seating is limited so register early.
Want easy access to SEANC discounts? Then make sure you download the PerksCard app - PerksConnect. Available on the App Store and Google Play, this lets you start saving by showing local deals, right on your phone! Just be sure to use the group code
Members of SEANC's Member Strength Committee came to the General Assembly on Tuesday to speak with lawmakers about the need for pay raises for active state employees and cost-of-living adjustments for retirees. The group had productive meetings with representatives on both sides of the politcal spectrum, and handed out cards detailing just how far state pay has lagged behind the cost of goods and services over the last five years. All members are encouraged to talk to legislators in person at the legislature or by phone to tell them your story and how what they do in Raleigh affects you. SEANC staff can help you schedule meetings with your lawmakers and make sure you have the most up-to-date information possible about SEANC’s legislative priorities, so you can have a good and productive conversation. All you have to do is let us know you’re coming. Just email tbooe@seanc.org or call 800-2222758 or 919-810-0272. Click here for legislators' contact information and click here for SEANC's legislative priorities.
More state workers side with SEANC! Congratulations to all 66 new members who chose this week to empower themselves and the public services they provide by joining SEANC! SEANC members in District 39 recruited new members at an Ice Cream Social at N.C. State University's McKimmon Center on Thursday (pictured). New members also come to us from the state departments of Administration, Commerce, Health and Human Services, Public Safety and Transportation, the Administrative Offices of the Courts, Appalachian State University, N.C. Central University, N.C. State University, UNC-Wilmington, the State Employees’ Credit Union and schools in Sampson and Wake counties and Chapel Hill/Carrboro.
SEANC when you register! Click here for more information.
Stay in the know by updating your info
Contact Lynn Cote for more information on hosting an event at your worksite.
Purchasing Power!
Have you recently moved, gotten a new telephone number or have a different email address? SEANC needs to know. Having the most up-to-date contact information on file with us is important so we can reach you by mail or phone when an issue arises. To check your information on file with us and make changes, click on “Update Contact Information� under Quick Links at the bottom left of seanc.org (you must log into the site first).
Take advantage of this special benefit to SEANC members. With Purchasing Power, you can shop thousands of products, vacation packages and education services and pay via payroll or pension deduction! The program is offered to qualified SEANC members. To receive emails with special promotions, be sure to register on the Purchasing Power website.
Also, if you have SEANC insurance and would like to update us on new dependents, marital status or anything else, please click here.
This insurance offers cost-effective nationwide benefit plans and includes eye exams, lenses, eyeglass frames and contact lenses. The enhanced plan option covers many eyeglass lens extras such as progressive lenses. Discounts are available on non-covered cosmetic options and laser vision correction procedures.
.
Click here for information on signing up for coverage or contact a Member Benefits Insurance Specialist at 919-833-6436 or 800-2222758. Also, be sure to check out ALL of SEANC's insurance programs on the SEANC Insurance page to save even more money!
See better for less with SEANC Members can see more clearly for less thanks to affordable vision coverage from SEANC Insurance!
State Employees Association of North Carolina 1621 Midtown Place Raleigh, NC 27609 800-222-2758 | seanc.org
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The SEANC Scoop STATE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION OF NORTH CAROLINA IMPORTANT LINKS Member-Only Discounts SEANC Insurance SEANC in the News Update Contact Info Calendar of Events The Reporter
May 22, 2015
House budget passes with raises, COLAs, leave for state employees and retirees After a whirlwind week of committee meetings and floor debate, the House passed its budget proposal in the wee hours of Friday morning that includes a 2-percent pay increase for state employees and a 2-percent costof-living adjustment for retirees. And a little-publicized item may be just as beneficial to state employees. SEANC members and lobbyists were able to convince legislators to add 40 hours of extra bankable leave into the budget that passed with bipartisan support on a 93-23 vote. The budget includes little in the way of job cuts as well, although a few items are troubling, particularly 50 administrative positions in the Department of Transportation which will likely face outsourcing. SEANC continues to ask any DOT worker who has run into problems with privatization on the job to let us know by clicking here. You can provide as much or as little information as you want, and can remain anonymous.
Theme Park tickets now available Purchase discounted tickets to the hottest theme and water parks in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia at any State Employees'
But the budget dance isn’t over yet. State employees face their biggest challenge with the Senate’s proposal, which is already in the works according to leadership and will likely differ greatly from the House’s proposal. Senate Leader Phil Berger outlined his own list of priorities with little mention of state employees this week. He wants to double the state’s reserves, raising the rainy day fund to a minimum of $1 billion. He also wants to cut taxes and set aside $350 million for Medicaid reform. Read more about the budget and other happenings at the legislature in this week's Legislative Update.
Credit Union branch in the state.
All members are encouraged to talk to legislators in person at the legislature or by phone to tell them your story and how what they do in Raleigh affects you. SEANC staff can help you schedule meetings with your lawmakers and make sure you have the most up-to-date information possible about SEANC’s legislative priorities, so you can have a good and productive conversation. All you have to do is let us know you’re coming. Just email tbooe@seanc.org or call 800-2222758. Click here for legislators' contact information and click here for SEANC's legislative priorities.
REMINDER: Sam’s Club vouchers expire May 31, 2015. Vouchers will NOT be accepted past May 31, 2015. Please use your Sam’s Club voucher before May 31, 2015.
Want easy access to SEANC discounts? Then make sure you download the PerksCard app - PerksConnect. Available on the App Store and Google Play, this lets you start saving by showing local deals, right on your phone! Just be sure to use the group code SEANC when you register! Click here for more information.
Help grow SEANC and put some cash in your own pocket! Did you know you can earn money by helping SEANC grow? Right now through the end of July, the statewide membership committee has decided to pay $25 to each member for every five new members they recruit through July 31. A perfect opportunity for you to recruit is just around the corner. SEANC will hold a Statewide Recruiting Day on June 16, with events planned throughout the state. The committee would like to have at least one event in each of the 52 districts. Contact your district chairperson to see if your district has planned an event already. If it has, come out and join the effort - and sign up your five new members! If not, work with your chairperson to plan an event of your own! Another way to recruit is to contact SEANC's Member Action Department and have one of our team members come to your worksite and deliver a legislative and membership update to your coworkers. For more information on recruiting, visit our website and be sure to check out our Recruiter Resources.
Stay in the know by updating your info Have you recently moved, gotten a new telephone number or have a different email address? SEANC needs to know. Having the most up-to-date contact information on
file with us is important so we can reach you by mail or phone when an issue arises. To check your information on file with us and make changes, click on “Update Contact Information” under Quick Links at the bottom left of seanc.org (you must log into the site first). Also, if you have SEANC insurance and would like to update us on new dependents, marital status or anything else, please click here.
More state workers side with SEANC! Congratulations to all 85 new members who chose this week to empower themselves and the public services they provide by joining SEANC! SEANC members in District 21 recruited 15 new members and met with 325 current members at a Member Appreciation Luncheon in Butner on Tuesday (pictured). New members also come to us from the state departments of Health and Human Services, Justice, Public Safety and Transportation, Appalachian State University, East Carolina University, N.C. Central University, Durham Technical College, Hertford County Schools, UNC Hospitals and the State Employees’ Credit Union. Contact Lynn Cote for more information on hosting an event at your worksite.
RECRUIT! RECRUIT! RECRUIT! Do you have co-workers who are not SEANC members? Tell them why they should sign up today! Tell them that SEANC is a strong advocate for public employees and the vital services they provide - the only association that speaks for all state employees and works to improve North Carolina. For more information, visit our website, www.seanc.org and be sure to check out our Recruiter Resources.
Cool off at Water Country USA! Looking for somewhere to cool off this summer? Whether you enjoy thrilling water slides, relaxing by the pool, lounging in the lazy river or watching an amazing dive show, there's something for everyone at Water Country USA. And now, SEANC members can purchase special discount tickets through the Benefits page on the SEANC website, or by calling the SEANC office at 919-833-6436 (800-222-2758) and speaking with a Member Benefits Program Specialist.
Need dental insurance? Check out SEANC's plan! Need dental insurance? Enroll today in the MetLife dental plan. The plan includes an annual deductible from $25 to $50 and preventative care is 100 percent covered with no deductible for two visits per year. Enrollment forms received by the 10th of each month will be effective on the first of the following month. Already have MetLife Dental? Manage your account at www.metlife.com/mybenefits. For more information or to enroll, visit the SEANC insurance page.
State Employees Association of North Carolina 1621 Midtown Place Raleigh, NC 27609 800-222-2758 | seanc.org
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The SEANC Scoop STATE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION OF NORTH CAROLINA IMPORTANT LINKS Member-Only Discounts SEANC Insurance SEANC in the News Update Contact Info Calendar of Events The Reporter
May 29, 2015
Attention turns to Senate for employee rights, budget debates The madness surrounding the House budget debate last week subsided with its passage, and with the Senate yet to release its proposal, legislators turned their focus to bills that made the crossover deadline this week. For SEANC, that meant one bill consumed most of our lobbying efforts. House Bill 495, which would change several key aspects of state employment, including due process and political hirings provisions, was heard in the Senate Pensions & Retirement and Aging Committee on Wednesday. The bill passed the committee with a favorable report through voice vote, though there was controversy over whether or not it had actually received a majority of the votes. No one called for a paper vote, so the bill was sent to the Senate floor. Elsewhere, there was little talk about the Senate’s budget proposal this week but SEANC expects it to be made public in the next two weeks. Read more about the budget and other happenings at the legislature in this week's Legislative Update.
ALERT! SEANC's post office box to close
All members are encouraged to talk to legislators in person at the legislature or by phone to tell them your story and how what they do in Raleigh affects you. SEANC staff can help you schedule meetings with your lawmakers and make sure you have the most up-to-date information possible about SEANC’s legislative priorities, so you can have a good and productive conversation. All you have to do is let us know you’re coming. Just email tbooe@seanc.org or call 800-2222758.
SEANC will close its post office address (PO Drawer 27727, Raleigh, NC 27611) for good on June 30. After that date, any correspondences sent to that address may be lost. From now on, please mail all membership items, dues payments or any other SEANC-related mail directly to: SEANC Headquarters 1621 Midtown Place Raleigh, NC 27609
Click here for legislators' contact information and click here for SEANC's legislative priorities. SEANC continues to ask any DOT worker who has run into problems with privatization on the job to let us know by clicking here. You can provide as much or as little information as you want, and can remain anonymous.
Annual meetings now under way! Each year, each of SEANC's 52 districts hold an annual meeting to elect district officers for the coming year and conduct other important business. These meetings are a great way to get involved in the association and start advocating for your pay, retirement and health care. Along with elections, SEANC staff will give legislative updates and the upcoming September convention will be discussed.
Theme Park tickets now available Purchase discounted tickets to the hottest theme and water parks in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia at any State Employees' Credit Union branch in the state.
REMINDER: Sam’s Club vouchers
SEANC Scholarship Foundation Cash Raffle tickets are also available for purchase at these meetings for $1 each. The grand prize is $6,000. Every SEANC member is invited to their annual meeting. Click here for a full list of meeting dates and times. Click here to find your district.
More state workers side with SEANC! Congratulations to all 55 new members who chose this week to empower themselves and the public services they provide by joining SEANC! SEANC members in District 38 recruited new members on the Halifax Mall in Raleigh on Thursday (pictured). New members also come to us from the state departments of Commerce, Health and Human Services, Public Safety, Revenue and Transportation, Wilson Technical College, Fayetteville State University, NC State University, UNC-Charlotte, Winston Salem State University, UNC Hospitals, and schools in Alamance, Robeson and Sampson counties.
expire May 31, 2015. Vouchers will NOT be accepted past May 31, 2015. Please use your Sam’s Club voucher before May 31, 2015.
Remember the statewide membership committee has decided to pay $25 to each member for every five new members they recruit through July 31. For more information on recruiting, visit our website and be sure to check out our Recruiter Resources.
Want easy access to SEANC discounts?
Save at Office Depot!
Then make sure you download the PerksCard app PerksConnect. Available on the App Store and Google Play, this lets you start saving by showing local deals, right on your phone! Just be sure to use the group code SEANC when you register! Click here for more information.
Contact Lynn Cote for more information on hosting an event at your worksite.
Save at Office Depot! SEANC members can enjoy a discount on copies and select merchandise using the Office Depot Store Purchasing Program. To take advantage of these savings, members must take the discount card form to an Office Depot location to receive the discount.
Gain peace of mind with Colonial Life! Thought about supplemental insurance but not sure what is right for you? SEANC members can receive Colonial Life accident, cancer, critical illness, disability, hospital confinement, whole and universal life policies at competitive rates, with convenient payroll deduction. These personal insurance products can enhance your current benefits portfolio and can be customized to fit your individual needs. For more information on the plans, visit the SEANC Insurance page or contact a Colonial Life representative at 888-7326248.
State Employees Association of North Carolina 1621 Midtown Place Raleigh, NC 27609 800-222-2758 | seanc.org